When it comes to senior projects, students have the opportunity to explore their passions, with most opting for an internship with the intention of gaining experience. Ava Laudadio decided she wanted to take a different route- an independent project that would continue the flight to her lifelong interest in aerospace engineering. Laudadio signed up to get her piloting license.
Laudadios vision was clear when considering all of the license options.
“I did the private license because it gives you more privileges, and you can fly in certain air spaces that a recreational pilot might not be able to,” said Laudadio.
It was the best option, serving as a foundation to a buildable license, allowing her the opportunity to go to the next layer in the future if she chooses to.
There are many steps to obtaining a license to fly. The biggest issue is making sure you have enough time.
“The worst part was having to study every day,” said Laudadio.
Secondly, you have to decide what license you want to get and pick your school, whether it be private, commercial, or even recreational. A brief summary of the process is plane training, written exam, and practical exam. After a long two months of practice tests, reading manuals and finishing the online ground course, Laudadio completed her project, not only showing her commitment, but proving that aerospace engineering would be the perfect major for her.
This project not only gave Ava her piloting skills, but taught her hard work and perseverance. It showed her discipline and ability to plan out her time accordingly. After two long months and passing her final exam, Ava realized she wanted to major in aerospace engineering and pursue her Instrument Flight Rating. Laudadio recommends that students take careful consideration when picking their projects, as it might allow them to reach new heights.
